What other travelers are saying about Rinzaiji Temple, Shizuoka
Very well kept and beautiful tranquil place. The wood work is top tier. There is not a lot of walking around to do and is really just a quick visit and move on.
More about Rinzaiji Temple, Shizuoka from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
The temple occasionally offers Zen meditation sessions, where visitors can experience traditional Zen practices under the guidance of the temple monks.
The temple is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, with the gardens showcasing seasonal flowers and colorful foliage.
Rinzaiji Temple is accessible by bus from Shizuoka Station. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the temple, making it easily reachable for visitors.
I will visit Rinzai-ji whenever I visit Shizuoka. It has a feeling of absolute peace, that only Zen Temples have. It has a beautiful garden, including some rock gardens. Just sit and enjoy the feeling for about half an hour. I first went because of its historical importance. Tokugawa Ieyasu, the man who united Japan and established the Tokugawa Shogunate was lodged in Shizuoka as a hostage for his family's good behaviour as a young boy and returned to Sumpu (Shizuoka) in his 'retirement' and built a huge castle in the center of town. It was at this temple that he was lodged as a young boy. He came of age at the more-frequently visited but less impressive, nearby Shrine.
Great place, very spiritual. Guide was incredible. Very detailed and full of facts. All in English. If given another chance I would definitely come back and visit the place. The only thing you must remember you will not be allowed every time. Research beforehand.
There are special public openings twice a year.
I didn't know this and went to worship on a closed day.
It is usually a training temple.
I found out that there would be a public opening three days later, so I went again.
The Marishiten statue can only be seen when the temple is open to the public.
It was apparently moved here from Sengen Shrine.
Rinzai-ji Temple has a small room called the "Study Room" where Tokugawa Ieyasu is said to have studied.
There is a staircase that is said to have remained from that time.
It is said that Ieyasu may have walked here as well.
I was able to see a historic building, get a sense of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the garden was beautiful, allowing me to see rare things that are not usually on display.
There are several free parking spaces on the right side. The main hall is a nationally designated important cultural property. There are monks practicing their ascetic practices, creating a tense atmosphere. I was able to worship in a pleasant atmosphere.
